Early rehabilitation after total hip or knee joint replacement: a narrative review

When conservative treatment of osteoarthritis is not effective, patients may undergo total joint replacement. Postoperative rehabilitation is a crucial component of recovery, and early rehabilitation plays a particularly important role in optimizing outcomes, with the aim of enabling patients to return to independence and work as soon as possible. The aim of this paper is to summarize the role of early rehabilitation after total knee and hip joint replacement, including its main goals, key components, optimal timing, potential risks, and the evidence comparing early with delayed rehabilitation. Current evidence indicates that early inpatient rehabilitation contributes to faster recovery of mobility, improved joint range of motion and muscle strength, fewer postoperative complications, and shorter hospital stays. Early outpatient rehabilitation initiated soon after discharge may further support recovery by increasing daily physical activity, improving joint mobility, and reducing rehabilitation costs. Although some studies report similar clinical outcomes between early and delayed physiotherapy, earlier initiation may allow patients to achieve comparable functional recovery sooner. Overall, early rehabilitation represents a safe and effective approach that should be integrated into standard postoperative care pathways.